Many arguments and disputes continue and escalate because of the desire to have the last word. There is no winning from that position in a relationship. However, when trials come and we realize that our human power is limited, we are confronted with the reality that not everything is within our control. The need for control—the need to have the final say—fails us when we need it most because human control is neither faithful, sovereign, nor eternal. It is man-made and limited by human strength. Only by surrendering control and allowing God to have the final say can we fully experience His power at work within us. In surrender, we exchange the limits of our own strength for the supernatural power of His might.
“Now to him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” Ephesians 3:20 WEB
Seeing the Need
We may be capable, strong, and intelligent, but those qualities can sometimes blind us to our need for God’s hand in our everyday lives. What if we recognized our need to let Him have the last word in every situation? Our lives would be transformed. Times of tragedy and heartache reveal that we cannot achieve supernatural results through natural efforts alone.
“Therefore he sent horses, chariots, and a great army there. They came by night, and surrounded the city. When the servant of the man of God had risen early and gone out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was around the city. His servant said to him, ‘Alas, my master! What shall we do?’” 2 Kings 6:14–15 WEB
Asking for Help
God promises that He is an ever-present help in times of trouble. Once we recognize our need and humbly invite Him into our circumstances, we surrender the final word to Him. In that humility, we become open to His help as He lifts us up, encourages us, delivers us from fear, and guides us through our trials and troubles.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 WEB
Seeing the Provision
God is not limited as we are. His ways extend beyond human understanding, and His perspective is eternal. Surrendering the last word to Him requires faith in His power and trust in His goodness. As Elisha’s servant discovered, God’s provision may already surround us in ways we cannot see.
“He answered, ‘Don’t be afraid; for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’ Elisha prayed, and said, ‘Yahweh, please open his eyes, that he may see.’ Yahweh opened the young man’s eyes; and he saw: and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire around Elisha.” 2 Kings 6:16–17 WEB
Poem
During a recent trial beyond my control, God gave me a poem. As I surrendered the situation to Him, I proclaimed that He had the last word, and His peace followed. This poem has become a meditation, a prayer, and a proclamation of faith. I invite you to read it with the same spirit of surrender and trust.
